The Connection Corner

God’s Masterpiece in Progress

“Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.”

Psalms 139:16

It was my daughter’s first Valentine’s Day, and I wanted to create something special—a keepsake made from her tiny footprints. The idea felt simple and sweet: a heart crafted from paper and pink paint.

I spread everything across the table and gently dipped her little foot into the paint. She squirmed and kicked, her tiny legs flailing with unexpected strength.

Each failed attempt left me more frustrated, and the once-simple idea began to feel overwhelming.

I was on the verge of giving up when I paused, her little foot resting in my hand. I noticed the soft wrinkles on her skin and the way her toes curled. It reminded me that this was not about perfection, but instead, catching these moments quickly slipping by.

Eventually, I managed to create a heart. In my eyes, it was so beautiful. The smudges and uneven lines told a story of effort, patience, and love. It was not perfect, but it was hers.

That little keepsake has been on display on our refrigerator for a year now. Now, every time I walk by, I think about how God shapes us. Just as I held her feet steady to make that print, He takes the messiest parts of our lives and works them into something meaningful.

Maybe your life feels like a series of smudges and failed attempts. What if those very places are where His love is working the most? There is beauty in the process, even when it feels chaotic. Let Him leave His mark on your heart and trust that God is still creating something beautiful.

February 1, 2025/by Sarah Hall

One Invitation, Eternal Change

Daily Devotional, Sarah Hall

“So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

Isaiah 55:11

The extra hours I worked at Anytime Fitness in West Monroe were supposed to help me save for school, but God had more in mind.

One day, a young woman, about my age, walked into the office with a quick question. We chatted briefly, and as she turned to leave, I felt a nudge from God: invite her to church.

I almost dismissed it. Would it be awkward? Would I come across the wrong way? But the thought stayed.

So, I leaned forward and said, “Hey, you should come to our young adult service sometime.”

She smiled and mentioned how busy work kept her but said she might come someday. I assumed that would be the end of it, but a few weeks later, there she was—sitting with a friend in the back at our Tuesday night group.

That first night, she sat quietly, taking it all in. Week after week, she returned, growing more engaged each time. Over time, I saw her walls come down. She started attending our Saturday morning Bible study, asking questions, and diving into the conversations.

Something shifted as she shared her story and allowed herself to be vulnerable. She wanted more than just answers—she wanted hope. The day she placed her faith in Jesus and was baptized, I watched with tears in my eyes.

That was years ago. Today, she is married to a godly man and raising a beautiful daughter. Together, they are passionate about missions and helping others grow in their faith.

It humbles me to think God used something so small. One invitation. One step of faith. He took it and turned it into something eternal.

Sometimes, God uses small moments to work out His big plans. Do not underestimate the power of reaching out. When you feel prompted to act, lean into it. You never know whose story might change because of your courage to speak.

January 31, 2025/by Sarah Hall

The Beauty of Being Still

Daily Devotional

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

Psalm 46:10

Ann barely glanced up from her cooking when Brett walked in, their youngest son in tow. “Have you seen the sunset?” he asked, his voice unusually earnest.

“No, should I?” Ann responded, wiping her hands on a towel. She followed him outside, curious about what had prompted his question.

The sky was a masterpiece. Shades of violet stretched across the horizon, fading into bold streaks of tangerine and crimson, all crowned with a glowing gold. Ann stood still, taking in the vibrant scene.

She was about to retreat to her kitchen when a tug on her heart kept her rooted in place. Turning back toward the painted sky, she felt an unspoken message resonate within her: “Receive this moment.”

Ann closed her eyes, letting the truth settle. How many sunsets had she missed? How many small wonders had she ignored in her rush to the next thing? The melody of rain, the joy of a child’s laughter, the warmth of the sun—each moment a divine gift, waiting to be noticed.

Standing under the vivid sky, Ann made a quiet vow to pause more often, to see and savor the goodness of God around her. She would no longer let busyness steal these moments she was given.

What beauty might you notice if you stopped to look today?

January 30, 2025/by David Hall